The Power of Communication: The Importance of Body Language, Smiles, and Words in Every Interaction

Communication is an often used word to describe many things in a lot of different ways. We hear people say, “I need more communication,” or “I get too much communication,” or “I didn’t get the communication I needed to fully understand.” All of those are likely true(ish). The point is, there is no such thing as perfect communication. And, I would argue, it is very difficult to over-communicate. That doesn’t mean it is always the right form of communication at the right time. Email is a perfect example, where we use sending an email (or barrage of them) and count that as effective communication.

It is easy to fall into a trap of thinking you have communicated, when at least some of your intended audience has heard you say a thing. You’ll hear managers say, “I told them already.” Or a global message is shared on a conference call and it’s just hoped that each person takes the part of the message that is intended for them. Communication is a complicated thing. It comes in many forms, and requires constant attention and follow up.

Effective communication is variety. It is verbal, non-verbal, written, and combinations of each of those. Think about a great speaker or presenter you have seen. They likely use all of those simultaneously. You see their body language (non-verbal), their hand gestures and facial features (all non-verbal). You hear their words and what they are saying (verbal), they may be using slides (visual), with some words (written). There may be a handout that accompanies a presentation (written and visual) to enhance the conversation. All of these work together to ensure the desired message is delivered.

There are several things you can keep in mind when you want to ensure you are communicating as effectively as possible, whether it is to an audience of one or many. Understanding who you are speaking to and the purpose of your message is also critical to how you approach the discussion. It should look very different when presenting a general message to a group of team members versus setting expectations with someone new, or someone you are coaching.

Simple gestures

It sounds too simple, and I am sure you’ve heard it before, but simple gestures like smiling go a long way in setting the stage for effective communication. This has become even more apparent over the past few years as many people now sit on virtual calls and meetings, and you see everyone’s facial expressions. Not smiling can cause confusion whether someone is engaged or not. Are they unhappy or disagreeing with what is being said? Those are new challenges for speakers and peers alike in this relatively new channel of communication. Be mindful of the simple gestures you make with your face, your arms, or your overall stance. Crossed arms, not smiling, and a tilt to one side can send a powerful message of not being engaged. Smiling, standing up straight with your arms open, sends a very open and welcoming message to those around you.

Non-verbal cues

Ever seen an eye roll, head shake, or slumping shoulders and just know exactly what someone else is thinking? We’ve all seen it. The opposite is true as well. A face brightens up, a grin turns to a full smile, and suddenly, there is an abundance of energy. They are into what you are saying. It is remarkable how people can quickly pick up on these cues and know what you are likely thinking without you speaking a word.

Words matter

Choosing what you say is as important as how you say them. Tone, inflection, and volume all send different messages along with your words. As a leader, people listen to every word you say. They are listening for cues on what you are looking for. Understanding that the words you select and how you say them can be interpreted in many ways is an essential element of effectively communicating the message you want.

Communication is always a two-way street. As important as what you say and how you present yourself to others can be, the balance of bringing in listening and the cues you give on that side also matter. Every interaction with others is a form of communication in one way or another. Being aware of your style, tone, stance, and selection of words can ensure that you are delivering the message and information you want in the way it is intended each time. Then, it is only a matter of doing it consistently to lead to the results you are looking for.

How are you measuring and improving your forms of communication?

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